Former hostage Amit Sossana was honored by First Lady Melania Trump at the US State Department's 19th annual International Women of Courage Awards for her decision to speak publicly about her experience as a hostage of Hamas, including the sexual violence she endured. Sossana's testimony allowed medical professionals to document the abuse. She described the recognition as an honor she never imagined receiving and one she wishes she didn't have to accept under these circumstances. Sossana was one of eight women from around the world to receive the award, which recognizes women who have demonstrated exceptional courage, strength, and leadership in advocating for peace, justice, human rights, and the empowerment of women and girls.